How is the Indian diaspora coming together for the Viksit Bharat Run in Iceland?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Unity: The event showcased the solidarity of the Indian diaspora in Iceland.
- Commitment: Participants pledged their dedication to the vision of a developed India by 2047.
- Global Outreach: The run is part of a larger initiative spanning over 150 locations worldwide.
- Service: The event emphasizes the values of community service and engagement.
- Celebration: It celebrates India's growth story and the spirit of inclusivity.
Reykjavik, Sep 28 (NationPress) Members of the Indian diaspora residing in Iceland took part in the Viksit Bharat Run organized by the Indian Embassy in Reykjavik on Sunday. India's Ambassador to Iceland R Ravindra addressed the Indian community and led them in the Viksit Bharat pledge.
In a post shared on X, the Indian Embassy in Reykjavik commented, "Embarking on the journey towards a Viksit Bharat! The Embassy of India in Reykjavik hosted the Viksit Bharat Run on 28 September 2025 to inspire the Indian diaspora to play a role in fostering a self-sufficient and Viksit Bharat, which translates to a Developed India. Ambassador R Ravindra spoke to the Indian diaspora and facilitated the Viksit Bharat pledge for them. During his remarks, the Ambassador reminded attendees of PM Narendra Modi's vision for a Viksit Bharat by 2047, highlighted in his 2025 Independence Day speech, which underscores that India's advancement hinges on self-reliance, innovation, and empowerment of citizens."
After the run concluded, R. Ravindra presented participation certificates to the runners. The embassy's statement noted that approximately 50 individuals from the Indian diaspora, alongside friends of India, took part in the Reykjavik edition of the Viksit Bharat Run 2025.
India's Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), in conjunction with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), is coordinating the Viksit Bharat Run 2025 across over 150 locations in 91 countries as part of Seva Pakhwada from September 17 to October 2. The Ministry of Youth and Sports stated, "This unprecedented global initiative aims to galvanize collaborative efforts for nation-building."
The run's goal is to unite Indians living overseas with local communities, students, professionals, and supporters of India, to reaffirm their commitment towards the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, as per their statement.
The Viksit Bharat Run, branded with the tagline “Run to Serve the Nation”, is designed as a 3–5 km community run in prominent and easily accessible venues worldwide. It will feature renowned landmarks such as Mexico City’s Angel of Independence, the UNESCO world heritage site in Paramaribo, Suriname, and the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, among many other iconic global locations.
As stated by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, "The Viksit Bharat Run 2025 is poised to become one of India's largest global outreach initiatives. It is not only a fitness and community event but also a worldwide celebration of India’s principles of Seva Bhav, sustainability, and inclusivity. The initiative seeks to fortify connections between India and its diaspora, encourage youth towards service-oriented projects, and showcase India’s growth narrative to the global audience."